Infant-feeding practices of mothers and the nutritional status of infants in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province

Feeding Practices, Food and Nutrition Insecurity of infants and their Mothers in Bangang Rural Community, Cameroon

“…These observations were similar to those of Kana et al [13], surveys that were conducted under similar conditions where 48.67% of mothers breastfed their babies. In a study reported by Mushaphi et al [7], 97% of mother's breastfed their baby. This was linked to a good promotion of breastfeeding in this area.…”

“…It is furthermore an important determinant of infant health in the prevention of malnutrition and infections. When an infant reaches the age of about six months, however, breast milk alone is no longer sufficient in meeting nutrient requirements and other food should therefore be given [7]. Despite its advantages, breastfeeding is declining in Cameroon [8].…”

“…It is important for to introduce solid foods at the age of six months. Reasons for this are that, apart for the fact that solid foods provide in increased nutrient to complete daily needs, it might then be difficult for the baby to accept the new tastes and textures of food later in life [7,10].…”

Comparison of infant-feeding practices in two health subdistricts with different baby-friendly status in Mpumalanga province

“…59 A mother's infant feeding option is often influenced by external factors. As an example, in a rural district of Limpopo, 50 about 45% of the mothers reported having introduced complementary foods because they had been advised by relatives or friends or health care workers. In addition 35% introduced complementary foods because their babies "were hungry" and 3.5% because their babies "had not been sleeping".…”

“…In addition 35% introduced complementary foods because their babies "were hungry" and 3.5% because their babies "had not been sleeping". Additional reasons cited for not practicing EBF included: giving water to prevent constipation, giving infant formula because of the perception that breastmilk was insufficient for their infant's needs, 46 as well as going back to school or work 50 and health reasons.…”